13 Accepted

We remain concerned that the definition of B&B in the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation) (England)...

Recommendation
We remain concerned that the definition of B&B in the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation) (England) Order 2003 does not prevent families being placed in similar accommodation, without any restrictions on the time local authorities can house them there. We recognise that the availability of support in council-owned or voluntary sector hostels may benefit some households and help them transition back to living independently. These facilities should only be used as emergency 63 accommodation and for short periods, unless there is an exceptional reason for doing so and the risks are effectively managed. (Conclusion, Paragraph 50)
Government Response Summary
The government states its commitment to eliminating unlawful B&B use and will review the use of socially managed hostel accommodation, considering further action to reduce or regulate its use and improve practice.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government Accepted
42. B&B accommodation is not suitable for families and we are determined to eliminate its use for families other than where no other accommodation is available, and then only for a maximum of six weeks. B&B accommodation is privately managed, meaning the council has less control over who else the household might be sharing facilities with, increasing safeguarding risks for children – and we believe it is right that this has been our focus. 43. Our latest quarterly statistics published at the end of April show that we are making significant progress on reducing the number of families and children in bed and breakfast accommodation beyond the six-week limit, as well as families in bed and breakfast overall (both down 60% from the same time last year). However, we are clear these numbers remain too high and we are determined to ensure our target is achieved. 44. Alongside this, we are determined to address other forms of temporary accommodation or practice that pose the greatest risks to the wellbeing and safety of children. The department and Ministers are working with stakeholders to identify these forms, and how we can monitor and how we can tackle them. Government is clear, however, that any accommodation which presents a safeguarding risk is unsuitable. 45. We are aware that some local authorities use their own hostels and assessment hubs within their homelessness housing pathways typically as first placements whilst a family's circumstances and needs are assessed, and that some of these arrangements include shared facilities. There can be a place for local authority owned or commissioned accommodation with shared facilities for families, provided it is good quality. It can provide the necessary stepping stone for the assessment of needs and provision of support, before moving families into appropriate interim or move on accommodation. 46. As part of our work with stakeholders and providers, we will review the use of socially managed hostel accommodation and consider whether further action is needed alongside our wider work to improve quality in order to reduce or regulate its use and improve practice.
Addressee Bodies
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Timeline
Recommendation age 0.3 yrs
Report published 22 Apr 2026